Pupil gets Mark Shuttleworth experience
FOURWAYS – HeronBridge College’s Grade 12 pupil, Grant Fourie was given an opportunity to join a prestigious group of pupils from around the world and participate in a week-long leadership development programme hosted at the United States Space and Rocket Center (USSRC) in Alabama.
“On the way to Huntsville, I could still contain my excitement enough to avoid whispering ‘one small step for man…’ while boarding the plane. Two days into the week and that restraint was gone – I said it loud and proud while stepping into the space shuttle simulator,” the young aspiring Fourie said.
His outstanding academic performance and dedication to serving his community caught the eye of the Honeywell Leadership Challenge Academy (HLCA) in the United States (US) from 20 to 26 February where he took part in workshops to expand his knowledge of current issues in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
“Reflecting on this trip I feel that the path I need to take in my future is better distilled in my mind and that I am more equipped to take it. I have a feeling that having made friends from all over the world will also be valuable in the future,” Fourie said.
The HLCA is sponsored by Honeywell Hometown Solutions, a corporate citizenship initiative of Honeywell International, which was created in partnership with the USSRC, and introduces pupils to the legacy of the American Space Programme.
As part of the challenge, Fourie received laboratory and field training and the opportunity to participate in simulated astronaut training. The pupils also faced physical challenges as they anticipated the simulated jet-fighter pilot training and rocket construction.
“I would like to pay more attention to developments in the scientific world now that I have been given a starting point. I have also realised that what happens in the classroom is the tip of the iceberg, and it seems that most of what is worth knowing is only waiting for you to find it,” Fourie expressed.
The Grade 12 pupil has also earned a place in the South African Schools’ debating team, which is currently competing in the Eurasian Schools Debating Championship in Istanbul, Turkey.
Fourie and the debating team will represent the country later on this year at the World Championships in Stuttgart, Germany. More than 66 countries have pre-registered for this global competition, which is hosted by the Debating Society Germany.
Details: www.heronbridgecollege.co.za
Do you have any pupils who have been given an extraordinary experience? Share your views on the Fourways Review Facebook page
